I am so stinking over the moon proud of my sister Tegan. It is her first (technically second) Mothers Day, as well as our first Mother's Day without our dear Mom. I know my Mom would be so proud of Tegan, and would be singing her praises, so I just want to take a hot couple seconds here and gush about this girl.

Tegan, you are so strong.

You found out you were pregnant about a month before Mom was diagnosed with terminal cancer, and you had no choice but to learn how to balance the overwhelming stress of grieving, with trying to stay strong and positive and in good spirits to protect and to keep our precious little Hazel healthy.

You stayed as positive as you could while you mourned and grieved Mom as her body slowly failed her. I know I speak for Mom when I say, I'm sorry you haven't had her around for all of you & Hazels firsts. We are all so grateful Mom got Hazels first smile, and that Mom gave Hazel her last, but we grieve all of the smiles, laughter and advice we thought we still had all the time in the world to receive. I grieve all the words, advice and comfort Mom would have given you this year. I'm sorry for the gaping hole that has been left at such a precious and challenging time in your life as a new Mother.

Tegan, Happy Mothers Day. It has been such a pleasure to watch you become a Mother, and what an honour to become more and more like Mom. We have learned from the best. To watch you search, read and study all the things about being a new Mom, I truly admire your dedication toward Dan and Hazel. You would do anything as well as sacrifice anything for Haze and it has been so fun to watch you step into a new role. I am so lucky to have you as a sister to learn from.

I'm so stinking grateful I have you. You have already taught me so much about what it takes to be a Mother, and to watch your undying love for Hazel gives me a glimpse of what it could feel like to be a Mom. Thank you (and Dan) for creating one of the most special little girls in my life. She is such a gift of love and comfort.